Report: Celtics have offered $80/4-year extension to Jaylen Brown

Per a report from Yahoo Sport’s Chris Haynes, the Celtics and Jaylen Brown have been talking on a possible extension before Monday’s deadline:

...the Celtics have extended the 6-foot-7 swingman an offer of four years and $80 million, league sources told Yahoo Sports.

But Brown believes in his ability to one day be a star and is pursuing a bigger offer, sources said. Next season the Celtics will have another major decision: figuring out if Jayson Tatum is worth the rookie-scale max.

Should the 22-year-old Brown go the restricted free-agency route, he could end up being one of the top players on the market in July. Whatever he decides to do, he seems content and at peace.

Brown told The New York Times’ Marc Stein that “everybody says that they’re not concerned with (contract extensions), but in some way, shape or form they are. But to be honest, it’s really not overwhelming me or ruling my thoughts. I know what type of talent I have. I’m confident in myself. I’m confident in my ability.”

The #3 overall pick in 2016 has shown dramatic improvement and versatility this summer after an underwhelming junior season last year. For Team USA, he showed an ability to play bigger in the front court on both sides of the ball. So far in training camp and the preseason, he’s attacked defenses with more aggression and a wider skill set than in the past. He could potentially have a break out season in his contract year.

Brown is eligible for a bigger deal. Both Ben Simmons and Jamal Murray received 5-year, $170 million max offers from their respective teams. Brown previously did not have representation, but recently signed with agent Jason Glushon to negotiate his next contract. Glushon notable reps Al Horford, who signed a four-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers for four years, $109 million. If the 22-year-old decides to play out 2019-2020, he could be one of the most sought after free agents next summer. The Celtics, of course, will have his restricted free agency rights and the ability to match any offer sheet.